Common name:
Eurasian Magpie
Ladakhi name:
Katang putit, kha srag,
cha-thago, chatsaga
Scientific name:
Pica pica
Order:
Passeriformes
Family:
Corvidae
fun facts:
Pica means Magpie in classic Latin. The Eurasian Magpie, also called the Black-billed Magpie, is a resident in Ladakh and can be found almost everywhere in the UT up to 4500 m.
The magpie’s brain-to-body mass ratio is smaller than only humans and they have shown the ability to make and use tools.
There remains a debate whether all are one species or not – with 9 sub-species currently recognised of Eurasian Magpie. Nests can be found at 4400 m elevation!
Bird Club Contributor:
Sonam Stanzin, Tangyar
